Federal mediation called for in port dispute including Oakland

This just in from the Pacific Maritime Association, which represents shipowners in contract talks with the ILWU:

“Outside intervention is necessary to bring the talks to conclusion, particularly given the ongoing impact of ILWU work slowdowns, which have disrupted cargo movement at the major West Coast ports of Tacoma, Seattle, Oakland, Los Angeles and Long Beach.”

The PMA issued the statement this afternoon, saying essentially talks were going nowhere.

“After seven months of negotiations, we remain far apart on many issues,” said PMA spokesman Wade Gates. “At the same time, the union continues its slowdowns, walk-offs and other actions that are having impacts on shippers, truck drivers and other local workers — with no end in sight.”

This doesn’t sound great for the Port of Oakland and other U.S. West Coast ports facing growing sentiment among shipping lines to route cargo elsewhere.

Awaiting a response from the ILWU. Will update post as soon as I get it.

Update: The ILWU said it will not be issuing a statement until tomorrow.